Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory

The facility operates a 26-meter radio telescope that receives signals from distant astronomical objects through advanced microwave band receivers.

NASA established the facility in 1961 as Deep Space Station 51, supporting missions like Ranger and Surveyor before transferring it to South African authorities in 1975.

The observatory conducts scientific programs with universities across South Africa, training students in radio astronomy and engineering through hands-on research experiences.

Located in a natural bowl of hills near Magaliesberg mountains, the observatory maintains distance from urban radio interference while remaining accessible from Johannesburg.

The facility participates in global Very Long Baseline Interferometry observations, connecting radio telescopes across continents for precise astronomical measurements.

Location: Krugersdorp

Inception: 1961

Official opening: 1961

Part of: European VLBI Network, South African Radio Astronomy Observatory

Website: http://hartrao.ac.za

GPS coordinates: -25.89037,27.68558

Latest update: March 18, 2025 07:52